By CESAR JOLITO III
The former head of the Negros Occidental Progressive Alliance of Capitol Employees (PACE) stood firm on their role in filing a complaint that led to the dismissal of the former department head at the Capitol, saying it was the union’s duty to protect its members.
PACE former President Renelo Lastierre broke his silence following the recommendation of the Provincial Legal Office (PLO) to dismiss former Human Resources Management Office chief Atty. Anabelle Palic from service due to multiple administrative offenses.
“As former chairman of the workers’ union, it was my duty to protect and defend the employees of this province,” Lastierre said in a statement to the media.
“It was never personal. It was about standing for the rights, welfare and dignity of provincial workers,” he added.
The PLO, in a decision dated June 17, found Palic “administratively liable for grave misconduct, oppression, conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service, and notoriously undesirable” after evaluating complaints filed against her.
PLO head Atty. Alberto Nellas, Jr. confirmed that Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson issued the dismissal order on June 13, acting on the hearing officer’s findings.
Palic has since filed a motion for reconsideration with the PLO on June 30.
Lastierre clarified that the union’s decision to endorse the collective complaint was a collegial and unanimous resolution of PACE’s Board of Directors at the time.
“PACE has historically been the watchdog of employees’ rights and benefits,” Lastierre emphasized.
“The union merely endorsed the collective concerns to Lacson, whom we trust to act with fairness and wisdom,” he added.
He also underscored that respect and protection of employees are essential for an effective public workforce.
“A happy and protected worker brings forth good performance and public service,” Lastierre said.
While the case now awaits further action following Palic’s appeal, Lastierre said he continues to abide by legal orders and respects due process.
“As an employee of this province, I always follow the decisions of duly constituted authorities,” he said./CJ, WDJ